Granada

Founded in 1524, and being one of the oldest cities of the region, Granada has been gradually picking up steam as a site for tourism because of its colorful colonial architecture. Museums have opened, and new hotels and restaurants are growing at a fast rate. It is also a location for the major production of organic coffee, plantains and bananas. However, don't expect the city or the country to be as developed as what you're used, if you're living in a major international city.

Pictured above, is a view of the town square, as seen through atop the Lady of the Assumption Cathedral. This place will be hard to miss, as it's the main cathedral of the main plaza. Word of caution: locals told me not to walk through the park in this plaza after sunset, as there is little lighting and it has been known to be a source of pick-pocketing and other nefarious activities. I traveled alone and stayed at a hotel just a block from here, and had no issues in the day!

View of the Lady of the Assumption Cathedral. While it may not look like it from this photo, it was a sweltering 100 degrees that day and humid.

Do yourself a favor and please eat at Bocadillos in Granada. It is so good!

The Nica Madras was refreshing and light. Flor de Cana Extra Lite, orange & lime juice topped with home brewed Jamaica.

Artisan bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, basil and extra virgin olive oil.

So maybe this isn't local food, but whatever, it was delicious! Thai Noodle salad. Julienned vegetables, rice noodles, crushed peanuts, and fresh herbs tossed with house made soy ginger vinaigrette.

I stayed at a lovely hotel in Granada called La Gran Francia, with my room opening up to the indoor swimming pool.

The inside of my room at La Gran Francia. The decor is perfectly matched with the colorful city of Granada.

Such charming decor in my bathroom at the La Gran Francia! Interesting shower tiles and sink basin.

I was eating at Bocadillos, and the very friendly waiter recommended visiting Volcan Masaya. He called his friend, who operated a local tour company. So I went over after to meet his friend and hopped on a last minute tour that evening to see the Masaya volcano. Amazing! The red glow behind me is from the lava.

A glimpse into Volcan Masaya. There was also a National Geographic crew conducting studies of the volcanic activity further below.